Apologies for the naff title, anyone under 25 might have to ask Mum and Dad why anyone would sing along......

From Aleppo we went to the seaside city of Lattakia, where to be honest we just enjoyed the people watching for a couple of days. This was quite a culture shock compared to Aleppo as it is far less conservative and full of bars and cafes and girls dressed in a Western style. So kicking back by the seaside was most pleasant and we had a constant temperature of 30 degrees. Quite why our hotel owner is obsessed with Tintin remains a mystery, but at least he can name a famous Belgian....

Onward from Lattakia we headed for Hama, a lovely old city full of Norias, effectively ancient waterwheels churning over the river. Using Hama as a base we travelled to Krak des Chevaliers, one of the great castles of the world and Apamea, a 3rd century BC Greek trading city

Tania celebrated her xx birthday and having researched the local restaurant scene we found one of the most beautiful restaurants we have ever been to as a special treat. So off we went planning to order a fine bottle of Lebanese vino and enjoy a luxurious meal, when low and behold, they had no alcohol!!! :( I don't mind telling you there was almost a riot, but I just about managed to control her.

A bus trip through the desert to Palmyra followed. This time a 2nd century trading town - wow - what an amazing site (Steve's growing to love them!) although we did have to wait a day to see it as when we arrived it was rather obscured by a sandstorm. And to add to the excitement there was a place in town selling banana pancakes and chocolate milkshakes - I know but variety is the spice of life!